Enniscorthy Riverside Trail
Grade: Easy
Distance: 6km (3.7 miles)
Waymarking: Red
Trailhead: Beside Riverside Park Hotel
Sat Nav: 52.497, -6.567
Parking: Street parking nearby
Trail Description
The trail is a 3km (6km round trip) scenic walk along the western bank of the River Slaney south of Enniscorthy town. The trail starts along the promenade walk at the southern end of the town and heads past a playground, crosses a footbridge at the River Urrin and follows a gravel path through a semi-wild meadow which is part of an extensive Special Area of Conservation.
The meadow plains offer views up and down the valley plus that of Brownswood House, the home of Eileen Gray, the famous furniture designer. The trail has proved to be very popular with the public and is well used by the residents of Enniscorthy Town and visitors alike.
The trail is level, with a number of benches offering a chance to rest and take in the views and tranquillity along the route. The river and meadow are part of the Slaney River Valley Special Area of Conservation which consists of dense scrub and grass dominated with herb layers. The meadow is flanked on the western boundary by alluvial wet woodland with strands of common alder and ash trees. The river margin next to the trail supports a variety of marsh and swamp flora such as iris and aquatic plants. The river and meadow are also part of the Wexford Harbour & Slobs Special Protection Area for birds and the tranquil walk is only interrupted by the rich sound of birds and wildlife.
Don't Miss
- There are numerous reverie fauna living and feeding within this special area. Local fauna include badgers, otters, frogs, swans, geese, goldfinch, thrush and heron and the river is stocked with Atlantic salmon, twaite shad and trout.
- Views of the home of Eileen Gray the famous furniture designer.
Useful Trail Information
OSI Discovery Map Series: 69
Grid Reference: S 974 394
Ascent: 3m
Walking time: 75 minutes
Format: Linear
Surface: Mixed
Gates/Stiles: No
Start/Finish: Beside Enniscorthy Riverside Park Hotel
Equipment Recommended:
Other Useful Information
Mobile Coverage: Generally Good
Picnic Area:
Public Toilets:
Dogs: Dogs must be kept under control at all times. You must clean up after your dog if it fouls in a public place.
Public Transport: Bus and Train available to Enniscorthy
Getting Here
This walk is located in Enniscorthy town. The car park is adjacent to the Riverside Park Hotel.
Trail Grades
Trail grades give an indication of what to expect when out on a trail. The grade will give an idea of the level of fitness and ability required to use the trail.
Before attempting a trail, it is important to consider the grading to ensure it matches your ability and level of fitness. Wexford Walking Trails are graded by Sport Ireland according to their criteria which is explained here.
Easy
Generally flat trails with a smooth surface and some gentle slopes or shallow steps. These trails are generally suitable for family groups including children and older people. Normal outdoor footwear can be worn. Source : Sport Ireland
Moderate
These trails may have some climbs and may have an uneven surface where the going is rough underfoot with some obstacles such as protruding roots, rocks, etc. The routes are appropriate for people with a moderate level of fitness and some walking experience. Specific outdoor walking footwear and clothing is recommended. Source : Sport Ireland